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Weight Loss in the Older Cat
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Introduction
Weight loss is a very common, but non-specific, clinical sign in older cats. It may be accompanied by other signs (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting and polyuria/polydipsia) which may help pinpoint a definitive diagnosis, but frequently there are no other obvious clinical findings. Weight loss may be the result of reduced calorie and nutrient intake, or increased metabolism. A reduction in calorie intake may be due to inadequate food consumption secondary to anorexia or oral lesions, or deficient absorption or digestion (despite a normal appetite) as a result of gastrointestinal, hepatic, biliary or pancreatic disease. Weight loss may also be caused by inefficient metabolism of nutrients after absorption (e.g., diabetes mellitus), whilst increased metabolism and calorie requirements are associated with certain diseases such as hyperthyroidism and some neoplastic conditions (cancer cachexia). The nature of the disease causing the weight loss determines if the appetite is affected; diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism are both frequently characterized by weight loss in spite of a normal or markedly increased appetite, whilst in gastrointestinal or neoplastic disorders the appetite may initially be normal or increased – although more commonly it is diminished, particularly if such diseases are inflammatory or there is systemic involvement. [...]
Key Points
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Weight loss is a very common, but non- specific, presentation in older cats; other clinical signs may or may not be obvious.
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It is important to weigh animals whenever they attend the practice throughout their lifetime; even the smallest weight loss in an older cat may be significant.
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A good clinical history must always be obtained; this should include details of the cat’s lifestyle and environment, and any possible changes in diet.
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If the cause of the weight loss is not obvious from the medical history and physical examination, blood and urine samples should be submitted for basic laboratory tests, with supplementary investigations performed as necessary.
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